You want food at your wedding to be tasty, memorable, and reflect your favourite flavours or cater to dietary preferences, such as gluten-free or vegan options, for your guests. One common question couples have is whether they have to use the venue’s in-house caterer or if they can bring in an outside caterer.
While some venues have strict rules, many offer flexibility, understanding that you may have a specific culinary vision or caterer in mind. It’s always worth asking the venue about their policy to see what options are available to you!
This blog explores whether wedding venues in Bromley typically allow outside catering and what options couples have to choose from.
Curious if Oakley House allows outside catering for your wedding? We offer flexibility to meet your needs, but have you considered the convenience of our top-notch in-house catering? Our talented chefs can create personalised menus that fit your vision, all while seamlessly coordinating with your event. It’s an easy way to ensure everything runs smoothly and provides a fantastic dining experience for you and your guests.
Contact us today on 020 8462 9292 or email us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk to discuss how our catering team can make your wedding day even more special!
At Oakley House, our in-house catering team crafts bespoke menus tailored to your tastes, ensuring every dish is a perfect complement to your special day.
Outside Catering: What Does It Mean For Your Wedding?
Outside catering refers to hiring an external catering service—your own chosen chefs, food vendors, or specialist caterers—to provide the food and beverages for your wedding, rather than relying on the venue’s in-house team. This option is especially appealing if you have a particular culinary vision, cultural food traditions, or specific dietary needs that a specialist caterer can best deliver.
Many couples seek out wedding venues with outside catering to:
- Showcase favourite family recipes or cultural cuisine
- Accommodate dietary preferences, such as vegan, gluten-free, or kosher menus
- Work with a trusted caterer they already know
- Create a unique, personalised buffet setup or food station experience
Oakley House: A Flexible Wedding Venue That Understands Your Vision
At Oakley House in Bromley, we recognise that every wedding is unique, and so are your catering desires. Whether you’re envisioning a self-catering wedding, a traditional banquet, or something more contemporary like a fusion buffet setup, our team is here to support your vision.
Yes, we allow outside catering at Oakley House, our wedding venue.
We proudly position ourselves as one of the most accommodating wedding venues with options for outside catering. We allow external food vendors, caterers, or cultural specialists to be brought in, giving couples the freedom to customise their menu in line with religious traditions, dietary requirements, or simply a personal love of a particular cuisine.
So, if you’re seeking:
- Wedding venues that allow outside catering
- Wedding food options tailored to your cultural heritage
- Budget wedding catering facility in Bromley
- Or a specific external caterer you’ve always dreamed of working with
Oakley House gives you the freedom to make it happen.
But Have You Explored The Benefits Of Our In-House Catering?
While we embrace flexibility and welcome your chosen caterers, Oakley House also provides an exceptional in-house catering service — one that’s built on quality, creativity, and convenience.
Here’s what makes our in-house catering a standout choice:
1. Talented On-Site Chefs
Our chefs are highly experienced in crafting menus that range from classic British dishes to international flavours. Whether you’re planning a formal sit-down meal or a lavish evening buffet, they work directly with you to curate dishes that reflect your preferences and fit the tone of your celebration.
2. Diverse Menu Packages
From flexible wedding packages to conference banquets and wake menus, we’ve built a wide range of menu options that cater to all dietary requirements — including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergen-aware requests.
Explore our selection:
- Main menu
- Banqueting menu
- Wine list
- Bar menu
- Wedding packages
- Wake and buffet menus
Our packages are competitively priced, ensuring you get outstanding value without compromising on quality.
3. Fully Licensed Bar On-Site
Oakley House features a fully stocked bar with a variety of wines, spirits, soft drinks, and more. There’s no minimum spend — just a warm, well-run bar experience with friendly staff, conveniently located within the venue.
4. Stress-Free Coordination
By choosing our in-house catering, you benefit from a team that works hand-in-hand with your event coordinator. This seamless collaboration means fewer logistics for you to manage, fewer vendors to oversee, and more time to enjoy your day.
Things To Consider When Choosing Between Outside Catering And In-House
We get it — sometimes the heart wants what it wants! Whether you’re working with a beloved family caterer or opting for a specialist in regional or religious cuisine, here’s what to keep in mind when bringing in external caterers:
1. Food Hygiene And Regulations
All external catering services must meet current food hygiene regulations and be fully insured. We require documentation in advance to ensure the safety and satisfaction of all guests.
2. Setup And Service
You or your caterer will be responsible for setting up and clearing down all catering elements. This includes any hired buffet setups, heating equipment, serving staff, and decor.
3. Security And Damage Deposit
A £1000 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date, and a £1500 damage deposit (fully refundable if no issues arise) will also be applied to ensure the venue is left as found.
Also Read: Choosing A Wedding Venue
Contact Oakley House
Why Oakley House is the Ideal Wedding Venue — Catering Freedom Included
Oakley House offers the best of both worlds: a venue with all the elegance and convenience you need, along with the freedom to make your day completely your own.
- Licensed for civil ceremonies and marriages
- Spacious banqueting suite (pillar-free for perfect photography)
- Beautiful gazebo and gardens for outdoor weddings
- Ample parking – 220 spaces available on-site
- Accessible location – direct transport links via bus, train, and A21/M25
- Fast, modern Wi-Fi throughout
- No hidden bar fees or catering restrictions
Conclusion
Whether you opt for our in-house team or bring in your outside caterers, our wedding venue at Oakley House will provide the support, setting, and service to make your day truly unforgettable.
Get in touch with us by calling on 020 8462 9292 or emailing us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk to discuss your ideas and catering preferences.
You are also warmly invited to visit us at Oakley House, Bromley Common, Bromley, BR2 8HA, for a personalised tasting experience and to explore everything our venue has to offer.